Description
The Blom-Singer SpeakFree HandFree HME Valve by InHealth Technologies is an innovative medical device designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals who have undergone a total laryngectomy. This single-use device combines a heat and moisture exchange (HME) cartridge with a fully integrated, adjustable hands-free speaking valve, enabling seamless hands-free speech.
Key Features
- Integrated Design: The device uniquely combines heat and moisture exchange with a hands-free speaking valve, offering a comprehensive solution in a single unit.
- Adjustable Resistance: The valve's resistance settings are adjustable, accommodating airflow from 45 to 115 liters per minute, allowing customization from light to extra strong settings.
- Breathability Options:
- ClassicFlow®: Offers increased moisture retention and resistance, providing warmed, filtered, and humidified air to alleviate respiratory symptoms post-laryngectomy.
- EasyFlow®: Features a more porous foam filter for easier breathing, ideal for higher activity levels and diverse pulmonary needs.
- Manual Occlusion: The valve can be manually occluded if needed, providing additional control.
Design and Compatibility
- Translucent, Non-Reflective Design: The device is designed to complement various skin tones, offering a natural appearance.
- Compatibility: Easily attaches to Blom-Singer adhesive housings or StomaSoft® Laryngectomy Tubes, and is compatible with InHealth baseplates, tubes, and buttons using adhesive housing.
- MucusShield Technology: Protects the filter from mucus and helps create an air-tight seal for effective speech.
Usage and Maintenance
- Disposable: Intended for single-use to ensure hygiene and optimal performance, available in 30-pack cartons.
- Optional Accessories: Each pack may include five optional crossbars.
- Intended Users: Suitable for individuals at least six months post-operative, who can manage daily cleaning and maintenance of their prosthesis.
Benefits
The Blom-Singer SpeakFree HandFree HME Valve facilitates hands-free speech while providing warmed, humidified, and filtered air to the trachea and lungs. This supports improved lung function and reduces symptoms such as dryness, mucus, and coughing. Its adjustable nature allows it to meet individual airflow needs and lifestyle demands, effectively replacing multiple competitor devices with a single adjustable cartridge.
Handling Guidelines
- Insertion: Gently place onto the laryngectomy tube and close the cassette cover.
- Removal: Ensure the HME cassette is closed when removing to prevent accidental dislodgement.
- Hygiene: Wash hands before use and store the device at room temperature.
Product Variants
- ClassicFlow®: Product Ref: BE1090EZ, CH2 Order Code: 2561186
- EasyFlow®: Product Ref: BE1090EF, CH2 Order Code: 2561178
Launched in October 2021, this device represents a significant advancement in post-laryngectomy care, providing a discreet and effective solution for hands-free communication.